Editor's note: Cyd Zeigler is an unpaid member of the Board of Directors for Out Athlete Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting out LGBTQ+ Olympic hopefuls and promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity at major sporting events, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to increasing the visibility and support of out LGBTQ+ athletes across the sporting world. When Alex Soejarto and Les Johnson approached me to become a founding board member of the Out Athlete Fund, I eagerly accepted the opportunity. The fund's mission to support LGBTQ+ athletes' training and create inclusive spaces at major sporting events aligns perfectly with my passion.
As we prepared for our inaugural athlete event in West Hollywood on November 1, selecting an athlete to support was straightforward: Team USA speed skater Conor McDermott-Mostowy. Many assume Olympians are financially well-off, but the reality can be quite different. Olympians captivate us with their talent and charisma on television every two years, but their fame often fades quickly once the games conclude.
While a few secure endorsement deals or appear in commercials, the majority return to their regular lives, juggling financial challenges alongside their Olympic dreams. Even legendary athletes like Greg Louganis have faced financial difficulties, selling their homes and medals to make ends meet.
Conor McDermott-Mostowy and the Path to the Olympics
Conor McDermott-Mostowy exemplifies the challenges faced by many LGBTQ+ Olympic hopefuls. While working tirelessly to qualify for the Olympics, athletes like Conor often navigate significant financial hurdles. They might need to live with family to save on expenses, subsist on inexpensive meals, and still find the time and resources to train and compete globally.
In 2013, I first recognized the extent of these challenges when I worked with New Zealand speedskater Blake Skjellerup. Blake, an openly gay athlete, was striving to compete in the Sochi Winter Olympics amidst Russia's anti-LGBTQ+ climate. We organized a fundraiser in Los Angeles, rallying support from various community members, and successfully raised $30,000 to cover his costs.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach in Italy, another right-wing government is challenging the LGBTQ+ community, echoing struggles happening within the United States. Supporting athletes like Conor McDermott-Mostowy becomes even more crucial in these times. Despite the presence of out women like Brittany Bowe, no out gay male speed skater has yet competed in the Olympics. Blake narrowly missed his opportunity in 2010 by a single qualification spot.
Conor's journey has also been fraught with financial setbacks. In previous years, he had to forgo competing at a World Championship simply because he couldn't afford the travel expenses. This is a stark reminder of the barriers facing many LGBTQ+ athletes. Community support is vital to ensuring talented individuals like Conor can represent Team USA on the world stage.
Join Us in Supporting Conor McDermott-Mostowy
The Out Athlete Fund is committed to helping athletes like Conor overcome these obstacles. Our upcoming event on November 1 in West Hollywood aims to raise the necessary funds to support his training and travel. As Conor prepares for critical competitions with Team USA, our support can help alleviate his financial worries, allowing him to focus on his Olympic dreams.
Not all athletes make the Olympic team. Conor narrowly missed selection in 2022 but remains undeterred. His resilience and determination are inspiring, and our community's backing can provide the encouragement he needs.
Whether you can join us in person or contribute remotely, every bit of help counts. Donations to the Out Athlete Fund are tax-deductible and go directly towards supporting Conor and other out LGBTQ+ athletes on their Olympic journey. Your contribution can make a significant difference in their lives and the representation of LGBTQ+ athletes at the Winter Olympics.
We invite you to be part of this exciting journey. You can RSVP for the event or make a donation online. Together, we can ensure that athletes like Conor have the opportunity to shine on the world stage, proudly representing both their country and the LGBTQ+ community.
Let's come together as a community to support these incredible athletes. Go Team LGBTQ+!
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